Hockey Community Mourns the Loss of Tom Moro

It is with great and heartfelt sadness we inform you of Tom Moro’s sudden passing yesterday.

Tom was the heart and soul of Johnny’s. He was a goaltender on a team at Johnny’s before he and his wife of 22 years, Lisa, bought the business from Anne and Lewis Kostiner nearly 15 years ago.

When the Moros purchased Johnny’s East, there were 60 families that made up the Jets youth hockey club and roughly 60 men’s league teams. Today, there are more than 300 families in the Jets program and more than 145 men’s league teams that call Johnny’s home.

Tom was a successful entrepreneur, which coupled with his background in finance, and love of the game, allowed him to grow a small rink into two thriving, successful operations known affectionally to all as JIH and JW.

Johnny’s is more than just a place to skate in the city. It is where friendships are created and business deals are made – all on the ice or in Stanley’s Club over a drink and popcorn.

From Learn to Skate and Learn to Play programs, Johnny’s is where many people of all ages, find their passion for the game. Tom loved bringing people together and connecting them over their shared love for the sport and gave selflessly to grow the game in Chicago.

Tom, 49, grew up in Homewood and attended Mankato State University where he played hockey before transferring to Eastern Illinois University. In his free time, he enjoyed golfing with friends and traveling with his family. He is survived by his wife, Lisa, and their children, Ben, 16, and Kate, 13.